For many clubs, the pool is
often an under-used resource. New programmes such as the
Rookie Lifeguard training (right) can generate extra revenue
fi tness manager at DC Leisure. “Many have been new customers to the facility. We’ve also seen an increase in the number of gym members using the pool, realising the benefi ts of incorporating it into their regular fi tness regime.”
UNDERWATER GYMS An activity currently taking Europe by storm, but yet to catch on in the UK, is group cycling on underwater bikes, which is said to be excellent for improving cardiovascular fitness without putting pressure on joints. Manufacturer Beco-Beermann is at the forefront of this trend with its SharkBike. Another option for exercising in
water is Beco-Beermann’s SharkWalker, an underwater treadmill with additional bars and belts that can be added to the sides to allow the upper body to be trained at the same time as the lower body. And new to the range is the SharkJumper – a mini trampoline that works out the whole body and, claims the company, reduces stress and releases endorphins thanks to the fun factor. Beco-Beermann will also arrange training for fi tness instructors. Italian company Hydrorider also sells
underwater equipment, accompanied by a range of programme options including
july 2011 © cybertrek 2011
aquacycling, aquatreadmill, aquaboxing, aquacombat and aquatriathlon, which involves underwater cycling and running as well as swimming. Not only do underwater classes add
a bit of variety to the class timetable, but underwater equipment is also good for one-to-one use with rehab patients, as well as with those who are deconditioned and fi nd exercising in the gym uncomfortable. The water not only keeps them cool but is also load-bearing, meaning pressure is taken off the joints. Meanwhile Lifehouse, the Surrey-
based health club and spa, employs an in-house physiotherapist to provide individual water-based sessions for rehab clients. “Typically our physiotherapist works with fi ve to 10 clients a day doing exercises that lend themselves to weight loss. They use very simple equipment – such as foam noodles, fl oats and weights – and the body is perfect for creating its own
resistance in water,” says Sue Davis, Lifehouse’s health and wellbeing manager.
LIFEGUARD TRAINING Becoming an approved training centre for lifeguard training can create another revenue stream for clubs, as well as bringing down your own training costs as it can then all be delivered in-house. IQL UK – which runs the National
Pool Lifeguard Qualifi cation – currently uses 2,200 pools across the country. The top seven providers have a collective income of £500,000 a year as they can charge their own fees and receive all of the income; the only cost is the NPQL training pack, purchased from the IQL. Meanwhile, the Royal Life Saving
Society (RLSS) UK has launched a Rookie Lifeguard programme for kids – an excellent progression from swimming lessons, as well as being easy to implement. To take the course,
Read Health Club Management online at
healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital 47
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